FDA issues recall for brand of baby water for mold contamination

Kroger is recalling a brand of water for infants after a mold discovery.

The mold can have "serious health consequences" for babies, according to the FDA.

The grocery chain is recalling "Comforts FOR BABY Purified Water with Flouride Added".

"The water is sold in clear containers, but the mold may not be visible with the naked eye", the FDA said.

Kroger, the largest grocery store chain in the country, tested the water after receiving customer complaints and found contamination by a species of mold called Talaromyces penicillium.

The affected products are labeled "Comforts For Baby Purified Water with Fluoride" and bear the plant code 51-4140 and the UPC number 0 41260 37597 2. "Allergic reactions to molds are common and can happen immediately after touching or inhaling mold spores, or later".

The affected drinks are jugs with sell-by dates between April 26, 2018, and October 10, 2018, which are sold at various chains owned by the Cincinnati-based Kroger Co.

"Drinking water or other products contaminated with Talaromyces penicillium may affect infants who have HIV or other conditions that cause immune compromise", said the FDA.

However, people who are allergic to the mold and also asthmatic may suffer asthma attacks.

Kroger (kr) disputed the severity of the problem, but nevertheless told staff in its stores to take the affected bottles off the shelves.

If you bought the bottled water, you can return it to the store for a refund, the release said.